'People keep ribbing me' regarding the Ashes being over prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are four such fans.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a historic English victory.
Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their house in Penwortham, Lancashire.
"Everyone at work has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"We always thought that we would have something to play for still when we got there."
Diminishing Hope
Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia before it began.
But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The England team - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for English supporters.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Every pundit points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.
"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
Future Prospects
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."
"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"We will have a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We must adopt that mindset."
"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be our first experience abroad at this time of year."
A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.
"As a backup plan, I can play golf to rely on," she finished.